Partial Revelation of Information in Experimental Asset Markets

ABSTRACT

We develop a model of market efficiency assuming private information is partially revealed to uninformed traders via the behavior
of those who are informed. This partial revelation of information (PRE) model is tested in fourteen computerized double auction
laboratory markets. It explains the market value and allocation of purchased information, and asset allocations, better than
either a fully revealing information model (FRE strong‐form efficiency) or a nonrevealing expectations model; but it takes
second place to FRE in explaining asset prices. We conjecture that refined versions of PRE may provide insight into “technical
analysis” and minibubbles in securities markets.